Service will help boost confidence to travel

A new independent travel training service for people with learning disabilities in the Stirling area is to be launched.

Streets Ahead is based at Riverside’s Riverbank Resource Centre which provides support to adults with learning disabilities.

The new service is designed to help people get more from life by giving them the confidence and skills to travel independently.

It’s hoped this will help overcome barriers to social inclusion, access leisure facilities and travel to work or college on their own.

Trainers will accompany service users on their chosen journey providing support, encouragement and guidance until the individual has developed the confidence and skills to travel independently.

The team will also help develop skills like learning the Highway Code, personal safety, confidence using public transport, planning a journey, understanding travel routes and timetables, money skills and knowing where to get help. Help will also be available on walking routes.

Streets Ahead day services officer Pamela Carruthers said: “We are hoping this service will help those with learning disabilities in the Stirling area to lead more fulfilled independent lives, by building knowledge and confidence with a chosen route to access opportunities in the area.

“We are excited to be launching this new service that can provide an alternative to traditional day support that has been used in other parts of the country to support adults with a learning disability to become more independent.”

Launch of the new service is at Mayfield Community Centre between 1pm and 2pm, on December 1.